Name: Baked Cinnamon-Sugar Donuts Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups (260 gr) all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup (100 gr) sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup (235 ml) whole milk; 1/4 cup (60 ml) vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup (100 gr) sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 2 tablespoon (30 gr) unsalted butter, melted

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 52 reviews

If you’ve ever craved that perfect balance of fluffy, tender donuts with a comforting cinnamon-sugar coating without all the fuss of deep frying, then you are going to absolutely love this Baked Cinnamon-Sugar Donuts Recipe. It’s a delightful twist on a classic treat that comes together quickly and bakes up light and airy, making it perfect for a weekend morning or an afternoon pick-me-up. The sweetness of the sugar paired with warm cinnamon creates a cozy flavor that feels like a big, delicious hug. Whether you’re serving them for a family breakfast, a casual gathering, or just indulging yourself, these donuts will be the star of the show with minimal effort and maximum joy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass measuring cup with orange markings is filled with a pale yellow, frothy liquid that has many small bubbles on the surface. A woman's hand is holding a metal whisk that is partially submerged, stirring the liquid inside the cup. The scene is set on a white marbled surface giving a clean and fresh look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting these donuts just right requires simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the fluffiness, sweetness, and spicy warmth that define the recipe’s charm.

2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the donuts, ensuring just the right texture and structure.
1/2 cup sugar: Adds sweetness within the batter, balancing out the flavors perfectly.
2 teaspoons baking powder: Provides the lift for light, airy donuts.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: This spices things up inside the batter with that signature cozy flavor.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors beautifully.
1 cup whole milk: Adds moisture and richness, helping the batter come together smoothly.
1/4 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the donuts moist without making them greasy.
2 large eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to the fluffy texture.
1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract: Lends a subtle sweetness and depth to the overall flavor.
1/2 cup sugar (for coating): Used for that irresistible sugary crust once the donuts are baked.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating): The warm spice that makes each bite irresistible.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Helps the cinnamon-sugar stick perfectly, adding richness to the finish.

How to Make Baked Cinnamon-Sugar Donuts Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pans

Begin by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). It’s important to preheat so that your donuts start baking at the right temperature for a perfect rise. Grease or spray two donut pans to prevent sticking, making sure they’re ready for the batter.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This mix is key because it distributes the rising agent and spice evenly, setting the stage for the perfect donut texture and flavor.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the whole milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisking them well until smooth ensures that the wet ingredients blend evenly with the dry mix for a consistent batter.

Step 4: Combine and Stir

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and gently mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the donuts tender and soft rather than dense.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pans

Fill each cavity about three-quarters full with the batter. You can do this neatly by spooning it in or, for an easier and less messy method, funnel the batter into a piping bag or a ziplock bag, snip a corner, and pipe the batter directly into the pans.

Step 6: Bake and Coat

Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the donuts are set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let them cool slightly, then brush each donut with melted butter and dunk them into the cinnamon-sugar mixture. This final step makes the outside beautifully crisp and full of delightful spice and sweetness.

How to Serve Baked Cinnamon-Sugar Donuts Recipe

The image shows three light brown doughnuts on a black cooling rack with sugar and cinnamon dusted on top giving a slightly grainy texture. One doughnut is whole and placed near the center, another is partially visible at the top left, and the third doughnut is broken into two pieces at the top right, showing a soft, fluffy inside with a slightly rough texture. Below the cooling rack, there is a white measuring spoon with ground cinnamon resting on a white marbled surface. The colors are warm and light with a clean, fresh look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra touch of charm, try adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warmed honey or maple syrup over the coated donuts. Chopped nuts or a light dusting of cocoa powder can also add some exciting texture and flavor layers.

Side Dishes

Pair these donuts with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or a glass of cold milk to complement their sweetness. Fresh fruit such as berries or sliced apples can add a refreshing balance and make your donut treat feel even more complete.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Baked Cinnamon-Sugar Donuts Recipe on a pretty platter with paper doilies or stack them in a tiered dessert stand for a festive gathering. You can also pop them in colorful cupcake liners for a portable treat that’s perfect for picnics or lunches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft and fresh for up to two days. Avoid refrigeration as it tends to dry out the donuts.

Freezing

These donuts freeze beautifully! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.

Reheating

To bring the donuts back to life, warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes or use a microwave for 15-20 seconds. This helps restore their fresh-baked softness and the cinnamon-sugar coating’s delightful texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour?

All-purpose flour works best for the texture of these baked donuts, but you could experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free blends. Just note that the texture and rise might change slightly.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the whole milk with almond or oat milk, and swap the butter for a plant-based alternative. The donuts will still be wonderfully moist and flavorful.

How can I make the donuts gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend designed for baking. Be sure the baking powder you use is gluten-free as well to maintain the integrity of the recipe.

Can I add other spices besides cinnamon?

Definitely! Nutmeg, cardamom, or pumpkin spice can be fantastic additions to the batter or coating to give your donuts a personalized twist.

What’s the best way to prevent donuts from sticking to the pan?

Make sure to thoroughly grease or spray your donut pans before pouring in the batter. Using a non-stick spray with flour or brushing the pans with melted butter helps ensure easy removal.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Cinnamon-Sugar Donuts Recipe is truly one of those feel-good treats that blend simplicity with deliciousness so effortlessly. Whether you’re making a bunch for a crowd or just a few for yourself, it’s a recipe that fills the kitchen with warmth and leaves everyone smiling. Give it a try soon — your taste buds will thank you for the cozy, sweet adventure!